The Allocation and Administration of Land by Traditional Leaders in the Republic of South Africa

Abstract

Land allocation and administration is a crucial role for traditional leaders, because it has remained one of the few de facto powers and sources of influence still available to them in their areas of jurisdictions.1 This role has been played by traditional leaders from time immemorial. Furthermore, the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa recognises the existence of traditional leaders.2 Moreover, the Constitution seeks to integrate the institution of traditional leadership by expecting national legislation to be put in place so that the roles of traditional leaders are known in society.3 However, roles with regard to the allocation and administration of land by traditional leaders have not been promulgated in legislation. Therefore, this research will look at the issues of land allocation and administration by traditional leadership in the democratic dispensation.